Marine Mammals; Issuance of Permits, 60374-60376 [2017-27362]
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 20, 2017 / Notices
slide); and Quantitative Target for
Improved Accuracy (e.g., relative
spectral correction of emission,
fluorescence lifetime, fluorescence
quantum yield).
(2) Types of Applications:
Fluorescence measurements are used for
detection in many areas, but how will
the proposed reference materials
address the quantitative needs of high
impact communities requiring better
accuracy and reproducibility?
(3) Experience in production and
characterization of reference materials
for quantitative fluorescence.
A responding organization should not
include any business proprietary
information in its response to this
request for information. NIST will not
treat any information provided in
response to this request as proprietary
information.
NIST will notify each organization of
its eligibility. In order to participate in
this Consortium, each eligible
organization must sign a Cooperative
Research and Development Agreement
(CRADA) for this Consortium. All
participants to this Consortium will be
bound by the same terms and
conditions.
Authority
15 U.S.C. 3710a.
Kevin Kimball,
NIST Chief of Staff.
[FR Doc. 2017–27353 Filed 12–19–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
RIN 0648–XF860
Marine Mammals; Issuance of Permits
National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Commerce.
ACTION: Notice; issuance of permits.
AGENCY:
Notice is hereby given that
individuals and institutions have been
issued Letters of Confirmation for
activities conducted under the General
Authorization for Scientific Research on
marine mammals. See SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION for a list of names and
address of recipients.
ADDRESSES: The Letters of Confirmation
and related documents are available for
review upon written request or by
appointment in the following office:
Permits and Conservation Division,
Office of Protected Resources, NMFS,
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES
SUMMARY:
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1315 East-West Highway, Room 13705,
Silver Spring, MD 20910; phone (301)
427–8401; fax (301) 713–0376.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Office of Protected Resources, Permits
and Conservation Division, (301) 427–
8401.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The
requested Letters of Confirmation have
been issued under the authority of the
Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972,
as amended (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), and
the regulations governing the taking and
importing of marine mammals (50 CFR
part 216). The General Authorization
allows for bona fide scientific research
that may result only in taking by Level
B harassment of marine mammals. The
following Letters of Confirmation (LOC)
were issued in Fiscal Years 2016 and
2017.
File No. 19826: Issued to Tara Moll,
Naval Undersea Warfare Center,
Division Newport, 1176, Howell St.,
Newport, RI, 02841 on January 28, 2016
to conduct ground surveys, photoidentification, and behavioral
observations of gray (Halichoerus
grypus grypus), harbor (Phoca vitulina),
and harp (Phoca groenlandica) seals in
the lower Chesapeake Bay, VA, and
Narragansett Bay, RI. The purpose of the
research is to investigate site fidelity
and movement among haul-out
locations, and to improve baseline
knowledge of pinniped occurrence in
areas adjacent to Navy training and
testing areas. The LOC expires January
31, 2021.
File No. 19749: Issued to Clearwater
Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward
Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767 on
February 17, 2016 to conduct vessel
surveys, close approach, photoidentification, behavioral observations,
and focal follows of bottlenose dolphins
(Tursiops truncatus). Research would
primarily occur in coastal waters from
Redington Long Pier (Pinellas County)
and north to Levy County, FL and
expand offshore to 20m isobaths. The
purpose of the research is to determine
home ranges, distribution, population
abundance, site fidelity, and
reproductive success, in the estuarine
and coastal waters of west central
Florida. The effects of human
interactions in this area will also be
considered. The LOC expires March 1,
2021.
File No. 19686: Issued to Jennifer
Lewis, Ph.D., Florida International
University 11200 SW 8th Street Miami,
FL 33199 on March 11, 2016 to conduct
vessel surveys, close approach, photoidentification, behavioral observations,
and focal follows of bottlenose
dolphins. Research would primarily
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occur in Florida Keys National Marine
Sanctuary as well as the southern
Florida Keys. The purpose of the
research is to determine home ranges,
distribution, population abundance, site
fidelity, and reproductive success, in
the estuarine and coastal waters of
southern Florida. The effects of human
interactions in this area will also be
considered. The LOC expires March 15,
2021.
File No. 20066: Issued to Eric Montie,
Ph.D., University of South Carolina
Beaufort, One University Boulevard,
Bluffton, SC 29909 on March 29, 2016
to conduct vessel surveys for passive
acoustic recordings, close approach,
photo-identification, and behavioral
observations of bottlenose dolphins.
Research would primarily occur in the
coastal waters of Bluffton and Hilton
Head, SC. The purpose of the research
is to better understand (1) the acoustic
ecology of bottlenose dolphins and their
prey, and (2) how anthropogenic noise
may impact the acoustic signals of fish
and bottlenose dolphins. The LOC
expires March 31, 2021.
File No. 19903: Issued to Andrew
Read, Ph.D., Duke University Marine
Laboratory, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road,
Beaufort, NC 28516–9721 on April 27,
2016 to conduct cetacean photoidentification surveys, behavioral
follows, and audio recordings in the
waters off Jacksonville, FL; Cape
Hatteras, NC; and Norfolk, VA. Twentyone species of cetaceans would be
studied. The objectives of the research
are to study factors influencing habitat
use, ranging patterns, behavioral
variation and population structure of
the above mentioned species. The LOC
expires April 30, 2021.
File No. 20412: Issued to Shoals
Marine Lab, 113 Morse Hall, 8 College
Road, Durham, NH 03824 on April 28,
2016, to conduct vessel surveys, photoidentification, and behavioral
observations and monitoring of harbor,
harp (Pagophilus groenlandica), hooded
(Cystophora cristata), and gray seals in
Maine and New Hampshire. The
purpose of this research is to monitor
density and distribution; identify and
re-sight unique individuals; document
use of the area by mother-pup pairs;
visually assess health of individuals;
and monitor the effects of human
disturbance (boating, fishing,
entanglement) on pinnipeds.
File No. 19540: Issued to Shannon
Gowans, Ph.D., Galbraith Marine
Science Laboratory, Eckerd College,
4200 54th Ave. South, St. Petersburg, FL
33711 on May 26, 2016, to conduct
vessel surveys for close-approach,
photo-identification, behavioral
observations, underwater photo/
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 20, 2017 / Notices
videography, focal follows, and passive
acoustic recordings of bottlenose,
Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis), and
rough-toothed (Steno bredanensis)
dolphins within Tampa Bay and
adjacent Gulf of Mexico waters. The
purpose of the research is to continue
long-term monitoring including
population size and trends, spatial and
temporal distribution of individual
dolphins, and social structure. The LOC
expires May 31, 2021.
File No. 16299–01: Issued to Ann
Weaver, Ph.D., School of Psychology
and Behavioral Sciences, Argosy
University, 5250 17th Street, Sarasota,
FL 34235 on June 10, 2016, extended
the expiration date of the LOC for one
year. The LOC authorizes vessel
surveys, photo-identification and
behavioral observations of bottlenose
dolphins near John’s Pass on the west
coast of Florida. The objective is to
study the before, during, and after
effects of bridge construction on the
abundance, distribution, and behavior
of dolphins. This LOC was subsequently
terminated on August 26, 2016, when a
new LOC (File No. 20346) was issued to
Dr. Weaver.
File No. 15621–01: Issued to Peggy
Stap, Marine Life Studies, P.O. Box 884,
Monterey, CA 93942 on June 15, 2016,
extended the expiration date of the LOC
for one year. The LOC authorizes for
photo-identification, passive acoustic
recordings, behavioral observations,
underwater photography and video, and
harassment of marine mammals during
vessel surveys in the Monterey Bay
National Marine Sanctuary. The
objectives are to: (1) Study the foraging
strategies of killer whales (Orcinus orca)
(transient and offshore) within the
sanctuary and (2) investigate the
abundance, distribution, movement, and
frequency of occurrence of cetaceans in
the sanctuary, specifically the
interaction of mixed species groups. The
new expiration date is June 15, 2017.
File No. 20386: Issued to Golden Gate
Cetacean Research, 9 Edgemar Way,
Corte Madera, CA 94925 on July 28,
2016 to conduct vessel surveys for
close-approach, photo-identification,
and behavioral observations of harbor
porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) and
bottlenose dolphin in Monterey Bay
through northern California waters,
including San Francisco Bay, and
Kachemak Bay, AK. The purpose of the
research is to collect photographic and
observational data on the distribution
and occurrence of harbor porpoise in
San Francisco Bay and to track the
movements of California coastal
bottlenose dolphins to the northern
limits of their range, as well as conduct
a comparative stud with harbor
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porpoises in Kachemak Bay, AK. The
LOC expires July 31, 2021.
File No. 20169: Issued to Maddalena
Bearzi, Ocean Conservation Society P.O.
Box 12860, Marina Del Rey, CA 90295
on August 9, 2016 to conduct vessel
surveys for close approach, photoidentification, and behavioral
observations of 18 non-listed cetacean
and pinniped species and stocks.
Research would occur within coastal
and offshore waters of Southern
California. The purpose of the research
is to continue the long-term study on
the ecology and aggregations of, and
disease occurrence in, marine mammals
in the area. The LOC expires August 15,
2021.
File No. 19289: Issued to Mari
Smultea, Smultea Environmental
Sciences, P.O. Box 256, Preston, WA
98050 on August 16, 2016 to conduct
aerial line-transect surveys,
photography, and behavioral
observations of 20 cetacean species and
five pinniped species. Aerial surveys
may occur in the U.S. Navy’s Southern
California Range Complex off San Diego,
CA, and near U.S. Naval installations in
Washington state: inland Puget Sound
Region and offshore in the existing
Northwest Training Range Complex and
Naval Underwater Warfare Center
Keyport Dabob Bay Range Complex. The
objectives of the research are to improve
baseline information on marine
mammal status, abundance, stock
structure, life history, seasonal
distribution, and behavior; and
assessment of potential impacts from
Naval training exercises in the study
areas. The LOC expires on August 1,
2021.
File No. 20346: Issued to Ann Weaver,
Ph.D., Good-natured Statistics
Consulting, PO Box 8732, St. Petersburg,
FL 33738 on August 25, 2016 to conduct
vessel-based scientific research of
bottlenose dolphins to monitor
abundance, distribution, and behavior
associated with a bridge construction
project over John’s Pass, Florida and
other coastal construction projects. The
purpose is to monitor the effects on
bottlenose dolphins associated with the
construction in an important dolphin
corridor at John’s Pass tidal inlet, St.
Petersburg, FL. The LOC expires August
31, 2021.
File No. 20377: Issued to Wendy Noke
Durden, Hubbs-Sea World Research
Institute, 3830 South Highway A1A #4–
181, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951 on
August 30, 2016 to conduct vessel-based
scientific research of behavioral
observations, passive acoustic
recording, monitoring, photo
identification, photography and video of
bottlenose dolphins from the Indian
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60375
River Lagoon and Jacksonville Estuarine
System stock. The objective is to
conduct scientific research of
abundance, distribution, behavior,
population dynamics and
communication. The research will occur
along the east coast of Florida,
specifically the Indian River Lagoon and
Halifax Rivers from northernmost limits
of Flagler County.
File No. 18605–01: Issued to Tara M.
Cox, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of
Marine Science, Savannah State
University, P.O. Box 20467, Savannah,
GA 31404 on September 9, 2016 to add
the newly recognized Central Georgia
Estuarine System stock of bottlenose
dolphins that occurs in the study area.
The LOC authorizes close approach,
photo-identification, behavioral
observations, passive acoustics, and
focal follows of several cetacean species
within estuarine and coastal waters of
Georgia and South Carolina. The
purpose of the research is to continue to
study dolphin-human interaction
behaviors related to coastal fisheries,
foraging ecology, and social and
population structure of local bottlenose
dolphins. The LOC expires on March 1,
2019.
File No. 20377–01: Issued to Wendy
Noke Durden, Hubbs-Sea World
Research Institute, 3830 South Highway
A1A #4–181, Melbourne Beach, FL
32951 on September 19, 2016, to change
the bottlenose dolphin stocks in the
LOC to reflect accurately those stocks
found in the study area. The LOC
authorizes vessel-based surveys
involving behavioral observations,
passive acoustic recording, monitoring,
photo identification, photography and
video from the inland waters of the
Indian River Lagoon estuary to the
Intracoastal Waters of the Halifax Rivers
estuary. The objective of the research is
to study bottlenose dolphin abundance,
distribution, behavior, population
dynamics and communication. The LOC
expires on September 1, 2021.
File No. 20519: Issued to Peggy Stap,
Marine Life Studies, P.O. Box 884,
Monterey, CA 93942 on December 28,
2016 to conduct vessel surveys, close
approach, photo-identification,
behavioral observations, passive
acoustics, and underwater photograph/
video within Monterey Bay National
Marine Sanctuary. Eighteen species of
cetaceans and four species of pinnipeds
would be studied. The purpose of the
research is to study foraging strategies
and vocalizations of killer whales and
investigate the abundance, distribution,
movement, and frequency of occurrence
of cetacean species within Monterey
Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The
LOC expires December 31, 2021.
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60376
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 243 / Wednesday, December 20, 2017 / Notices
File No. 19749–01: Issued to
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
[Responsible Party is Frank Dame], 249
Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL
33767 on March 27, 2017 to conduct
vessel surveys, close approach, photoidentification, behavioral observations,
of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops
truncatus) to assess their home ranges,
distribution, population abundance, site
fidelity, and reproductive success, in
the estuarine and coastal waters of west
central Florida. The amended LOC adds
52 annual takes of Atlantic spotted
dolphins that are observed to co-occur
with the target species (bottlenose
dolphins). The LOC expires March 1,
2021.
File No. 18101–01: Issued to Pacific
Whale Foundation [Principal
Investigator is Greg Kaufman], 300
Ma’alaea Rd., Suite 211, Wailuku, HI
96793 on March 27, 2017. The original
LOC authorized close approaches
during vessel line-transect surveys for
photo-identification, behavioral
observation, focal follows, and
underwater photography/videography of
several non-Endangered Species Act
(ESA) listed odontocetes in the waters
offshore of Maui County, HI. The
amended LOC adds annual takes of nonESA listed humpback whales,
(Megaptera novaeangliae, Hawaii
Distinct Population Segment), during
these surveys. Additionally, the
amendment adds in-water activities
(pole-mounted cameras and up to two
swimmers) with humpback whales only
in order to identify the sex of humpback
whales. The LOC expires June 1, 2018.
File No. 21134: Issued to John H.
Schacke, Ph.D., George Dolphin Ecology
Program, 223 Trace Lane, Commerce,
GA 30530 on May 11, 2017 to conduct
vessel surveys, photo-identification, and
behavioral observations of bottlenose
dolphins (Central Georgia Estuarine
System stock) within coastal and
estuarine waters of central Georgia. The
purpose of the research is to document
the abundance, distribution, movement,
and frequency of bottlenose dolphins
within Georgia and to contribute to
shared bottlenose dolphin catalogs
within the southeast Atlantic region.
The LOC expires May 15, 2022.
File No. 18101–02: Issued to Pacific
Whale Foundation [Principal
Investigator is Greg Kaufman], 300
Ma’alaea Rd., Suite 211, Wailuku, HI
96793 on March 27, 2017. The previous
LOC (No. 18101–01; above) authorized
close approaches during vessel linetransect surveys for photoidentification, behavioral observation,
focal follows, and underwater
photography/videography of several
non-listed odontocetes in the waters
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offshore of Maui County, HI. The
amended LOC adds photogrammetry as
a research procedure. The LOC expires
June 1, 2018.
In compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), a final
determination has been made that the
activities are categorically excluded
from the requirement to prepare an
environmental assessment or
environmental impact statement.
Dated: December 14, 2017.
Julia Harrison,
Chief, Permits and Conservation Division,
Office of Protected Resources, National
Marine Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–27362 Filed 12–19–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–22–P
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration
RIN 0648–XF828
Fisheries of the South Atlantic; South
Atlantic Fishery Management
Council—Public Meetings
National Marine Fisheries
Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
Commerce.
ACTION: Announcement of rescheduled
meeting.
AGENCY:
The South Atlantic Fishery
Management Council (Council) will
hold a meeting of its Citizen Science
Advisory Panel Finance & Infrastructure
Action Team via webinar. The meeting
via webinar was originally scheduled
for December 13, 2017, but has been
rescheduled as a result of schedule
changes.
SUMMARY:
The meeting via webinar has
been rescheduled for January 10, 2018,
at 1 p.m. The meeting is scheduled to
last approximately 90 minutes.
Additional Action Team webinar and
plenary webinar dates and times will
publish in a subsequent issue in the
Federal Register.
ADDRESSES:
Meeting address: The meetings will be
held via webinar and are open to
members of the public. Webinar
registration is required and registration
links will be posted to the Citizen
Science program page of the Council’s
website at www.safmc.net.
Council address: South Atlantic
Fishery Management Council, 4055
Faber Place Drive, Suite 201, N
Charleston, SC 29405.
DATES:
PO 00000
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Amber Von Harten, Citizen Science
Program Manager, SAFMC; phone 843/
302–8433 or toll free 866/SAFMC–10;
FAX 843/769–4520; email:
amber.vonharten@safmc.net.
Due to
schedule changes, the Council’s Finance
& Infrastructure Action Team meeting is
rescheduled for Wednesday, January 10,
2018 at 1 p.m.
The South Atlantic Fishery
Management Council (Council) created
a Citizen Science Advisory Panel Pool
in June 2017. The Council appointed
members of the Citizen Science
Advisory Panel Pool to five Action
Teams in the areas of Volunteers, Data
Management, Projects/Topics
Management, Finance, and
Communication/Outreach/Education to
develop program policies and
operations for the Council’s Citizen
Science Program.
The Finance & Infrastructure Action
Team will meet to continue work on
developing recommendations on
program policies and operations to be
reviewed by the Council’s Citizen
Science Committee. Public comments
will be accepted at the beginning of the
meeting.
Items to be addressed during these
meetings:
1. Discuss work on tasks in the Terms
of Reference.
2. Other Business.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Special Accommodations
These meetings are physically
accessible to people with disabilities.
Requests for auxiliary aids should be
directed to the council office (see
ADDRESSES) 3 days prior to the meeting.
Note: The times and sequence specified in
this agenda are subject to change.
Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
Dated: December 14, 2017.
Tracey L. Thompson,
Acting Deputy Director, Office of Sustainable
Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–27352 Filed 12–19–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510–22–P
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 243 (Wednesday, December 20, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 60374-60376]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-27362]
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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
RIN 0648-XF860
Marine Mammals; Issuance of Permits
AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.
ACTION: Notice; issuance of permits.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that individuals and institutions have
been issued Letters of Confirmation for activities conducted under the
General Authorization for Scientific Research on marine mammals. See
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for a list of names and address of
recipients.
ADDRESSES: The Letters of Confirmation and related documents are
available for review upon written request or by appointment in the
following office:
Permits and Conservation Division, Office of Protected Resources,
NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13705, Silver Spring, MD 20910;
phone (301) 427-8401; fax (301) 713-0376.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Office of Protected Resources, Permits
and Conservation Division, (301) 427-8401.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The requested Letters of Confirmation have
been issued under the authority of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of
1972, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.), and the regulations
governing the taking and importing of marine mammals (50 CFR part 216).
The General Authorization allows for bona fide scientific research that
may result only in taking by Level B harassment of marine mammals. The
following Letters of Confirmation (LOC) were issued in Fiscal Years
2016 and 2017.
File No. 19826: Issued to Tara Moll, Naval Undersea Warfare Center,
Division Newport, 1176, Howell St., Newport, RI, 02841 on January 28,
2016 to conduct ground surveys, photo-identification, and behavioral
observations of gray (Halichoerus grypus grypus), harbor (Phoca
vitulina), and harp (Phoca groenlandica) seals in the lower Chesapeake
Bay, VA, and Narragansett Bay, RI. The purpose of the research is to
investigate site fidelity and movement among haul-out locations, and to
improve baseline knowledge of pinniped occurrence in areas adjacent to
Navy training and testing areas. The LOC expires January 31, 2021.
File No. 19749: Issued to Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward
Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767 on February 17, 2016 to conduct vessel
surveys, close approach, photo-identification, behavioral observations,
and focal follows of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Research
would primarily occur in coastal waters from Redington Long Pier
(Pinellas County) and north to Levy County, FL and expand offshore to
20m isobaths. The purpose of the research is to determine home ranges,
distribution, population abundance, site fidelity, and reproductive
success, in the estuarine and coastal waters of west central Florida.
The effects of human interactions in this area will also be considered.
The LOC expires March 1, 2021.
File No. 19686: Issued to Jennifer Lewis, Ph.D., Florida
International University 11200 SW 8th Street Miami, FL 33199 on March
11, 2016 to conduct vessel surveys, close approach, photo-
identification, behavioral observations, and focal follows of
bottlenose dolphins. Research would primarily occur in Florida Keys
National Marine Sanctuary as well as the southern Florida Keys. The
purpose of the research is to determine home ranges, distribution,
population abundance, site fidelity, and reproductive success, in the
estuarine and coastal waters of southern Florida. The effects of human
interactions in this area will also be considered. The LOC expires
March 15, 2021.
File No. 20066: Issued to Eric Montie, Ph.D., University of South
Carolina Beaufort, One University Boulevard, Bluffton, SC 29909 on
March 29, 2016 to conduct vessel surveys for passive acoustic
recordings, close approach, photo-identification, and behavioral
observations of bottlenose dolphins. Research would primarily occur in
the coastal waters of Bluffton and Hilton Head, SC. The purpose of the
research is to better understand (1) the acoustic ecology of bottlenose
dolphins and their prey, and (2) how anthropogenic noise may impact the
acoustic signals of fish and bottlenose dolphins. The LOC expires March
31, 2021.
File No. 19903: Issued to Andrew Read, Ph.D., Duke University
Marine Laboratory, 135 Duke Marine Lab Road, Beaufort, NC 28516-9721 on
April 27, 2016 to conduct cetacean photo-identification surveys,
behavioral follows, and audio recordings in the waters off
Jacksonville, FL; Cape Hatteras, NC; and Norfolk, VA. Twenty-one
species of cetaceans would be studied. The objectives of the research
are to study factors influencing habitat use, ranging patterns,
behavioral variation and population structure of the above mentioned
species. The LOC expires April 30, 2021.
File No. 20412: Issued to Shoals Marine Lab, 113 Morse Hall, 8
College Road, Durham, NH 03824 on April 28, 2016, to conduct vessel
surveys, photo-identification, and behavioral observations and
monitoring of harbor, harp (Pagophilus groenlandica), hooded
(Cystophora cristata), and gray seals in Maine and New Hampshire. The
purpose of this research is to monitor density and distribution;
identify and re-sight unique individuals; document use of the area by
mother-pup pairs; visually assess health of individuals; and monitor
the effects of human disturbance (boating, fishing, entanglement) on
pinnipeds.
File No. 19540: Issued to Shannon Gowans, Ph.D., Galbraith Marine
Science Laboratory, Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. South, St.
Petersburg, FL 33711 on May 26, 2016, to conduct vessel surveys for
close-approach, photo-identification, behavioral observations,
underwater photo/
[[Page 60375]]
videography, focal follows, and passive acoustic recordings of
bottlenose, Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis), and rough-toothed
(Steno bredanensis) dolphins within Tampa Bay and adjacent Gulf of
Mexico waters. The purpose of the research is to continue long-term
monitoring including population size and trends, spatial and temporal
distribution of individual dolphins, and social structure. The LOC
expires May 31, 2021.
File No. 16299-01: Issued to Ann Weaver, Ph.D., School of
Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Argosy University, 5250 17th
Street, Sarasota, FL 34235 on June 10, 2016, extended the expiration
date of the LOC for one year. The LOC authorizes vessel surveys, photo-
identification and behavioral observations of bottlenose dolphins near
John's Pass on the west coast of Florida. The objective is to study the
before, during, and after effects of bridge construction on the
abundance, distribution, and behavior of dolphins. This LOC was
subsequently terminated on August 26, 2016, when a new LOC (File No.
20346) was issued to Dr. Weaver.
File No. 15621-01: Issued to Peggy Stap, Marine Life Studies, P.O.
Box 884, Monterey, CA 93942 on June 15, 2016, extended the expiration
date of the LOC for one year. The LOC authorizes for photo-
identification, passive acoustic recordings, behavioral observations,
underwater photography and video, and harassment of marine mammals
during vessel surveys in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
The objectives are to: (1) Study the foraging strategies of killer
whales (Orcinus orca) (transient and offshore) within the sanctuary and
(2) investigate the abundance, distribution, movement, and frequency of
occurrence of cetaceans in the sanctuary, specifically the interaction
of mixed species groups. The new expiration date is June 15, 2017.
File No. 20386: Issued to Golden Gate Cetacean Research, 9 Edgemar
Way, Corte Madera, CA 94925 on July 28, 2016 to conduct vessel surveys
for close-approach, photo-identification, and behavioral observations
of harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) and bottlenose dolphin in
Monterey Bay through northern California waters, including San
Francisco Bay, and Kachemak Bay, AK. The purpose of the research is to
collect photographic and observational data on the distribution and
occurrence of harbor porpoise in San Francisco Bay and to track the
movements of California coastal bottlenose dolphins to the northern
limits of their range, as well as conduct a comparative stud with
harbor porpoises in Kachemak Bay, AK. The LOC expires July 31, 2021.
File No. 20169: Issued to Maddalena Bearzi, Ocean Conservation
Society P.O. Box 12860, Marina Del Rey, CA 90295 on August 9, 2016 to
conduct vessel surveys for close approach, photo-identification, and
behavioral observations of 18 non-listed cetacean and pinniped species
and stocks. Research would occur within coastal and offshore waters of
Southern California. The purpose of the research is to continue the
long-term study on the ecology and aggregations of, and disease
occurrence in, marine mammals in the area. The LOC expires August 15,
2021.
File No. 19289: Issued to Mari Smultea, Smultea Environmental
Sciences, P.O. Box 256, Preston, WA 98050 on August 16, 2016 to conduct
aerial line-transect surveys, photography, and behavioral observations
of 20 cetacean species and five pinniped species. Aerial surveys may
occur in the U.S. Navy's Southern California Range Complex off San
Diego, CA, and near U.S. Naval installations in Washington state:
inland Puget Sound Region and offshore in the existing Northwest
Training Range Complex and Naval Underwater Warfare Center Keyport
Dabob Bay Range Complex. The objectives of the research are to improve
baseline information on marine mammal status, abundance, stock
structure, life history, seasonal distribution, and behavior; and
assessment of potential impacts from Naval training exercises in the
study areas. The LOC expires on August 1, 2021.
File No. 20346: Issued to Ann Weaver, Ph.D., Good-natured
Statistics Consulting, PO Box 8732, St. Petersburg, FL 33738 on August
25, 2016 to conduct vessel-based scientific research of bottlenose
dolphins to monitor abundance, distribution, and behavior associated
with a bridge construction project over John's Pass, Florida and other
coastal construction projects. The purpose is to monitor the effects on
bottlenose dolphins associated with the construction in an important
dolphin corridor at John's Pass tidal inlet, St. Petersburg, FL. The
LOC expires August 31, 2021.
File No. 20377: Issued to Wendy Noke Durden, Hubbs-Sea World
Research Institute, 3830 South Highway A1A #4-181, Melbourne Beach, FL
32951 on August 30, 2016 to conduct vessel-based scientific research of
behavioral observations, passive acoustic recording, monitoring, photo
identification, photography and video of bottlenose dolphins from the
Indian River Lagoon and Jacksonville Estuarine System stock. The
objective is to conduct scientific research of abundance, distribution,
behavior, population dynamics and communication. The research will
occur along the east coast of Florida, specifically the Indian River
Lagoon and Halifax Rivers from northernmost limits of Flagler County.
File No. 18605-01: Issued to Tara M. Cox, Ph.D., Assistant
Professor of Marine Science, Savannah State University, P.O. Box 20467,
Savannah, GA 31404 on September 9, 2016 to add the newly recognized
Central Georgia Estuarine System stock of bottlenose dolphins that
occurs in the study area. The LOC authorizes close approach, photo-
identification, behavioral observations, passive acoustics, and focal
follows of several cetacean species within estuarine and coastal waters
of Georgia and South Carolina. The purpose of the research is to
continue to study dolphin-human interaction behaviors related to
coastal fisheries, foraging ecology, and social and population
structure of local bottlenose dolphins. The LOC expires on March 1,
2019.
File No. 20377-01: Issued to Wendy Noke Durden, Hubbs-Sea World
Research Institute, 3830 South Highway A1A #4-181, Melbourne Beach, FL
32951 on September 19, 2016, to change the bottlenose dolphin stocks in
the LOC to reflect accurately those stocks found in the study area. The
LOC authorizes vessel-based surveys involving behavioral observations,
passive acoustic recording, monitoring, photo identification,
photography and video from the inland waters of the Indian River Lagoon
estuary to the Intracoastal Waters of the Halifax Rivers estuary. The
objective of the research is to study bottlenose dolphin abundance,
distribution, behavior, population dynamics and communication. The LOC
expires on September 1, 2021.
File No. 20519: Issued to Peggy Stap, Marine Life Studies, P.O. Box
884, Monterey, CA 93942 on December 28, 2016 to conduct vessel surveys,
close approach, photo-identification, behavioral observations, passive
acoustics, and underwater photograph/video within Monterey Bay National
Marine Sanctuary. Eighteen species of cetaceans and four species of
pinnipeds would be studied. The purpose of the research is to study
foraging strategies and vocalizations of killer whales and investigate
the abundance, distribution, movement, and frequency of occurrence of
cetacean species within Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The LOC
expires December 31, 2021.
[[Page 60376]]
File No. 19749-01: Issued to Clearwater Marine Aquarium
[Responsible Party is Frank Dame], 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL
33767 on March 27, 2017 to conduct vessel surveys, close approach,
photo-identification, behavioral observations, of bottlenose dolphins
(Tursiops truncatus) to assess their home ranges, distribution,
population abundance, site fidelity, and reproductive success, in the
estuarine and coastal waters of west central Florida. The amended LOC
adds 52 annual takes of Atlantic spotted dolphins that are observed to
co-occur with the target species (bottlenose dolphins). The LOC expires
March 1, 2021.
File No. 18101-01: Issued to Pacific Whale Foundation [Principal
Investigator is Greg Kaufman], 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211, Wailuku, HI
96793 on March 27, 2017. The original LOC authorized close approaches
during vessel line-transect surveys for photo-identification,
behavioral observation, focal follows, and underwater photography/
videography of several non-Endangered Species Act (ESA) listed
odontocetes in the waters offshore of Maui County, HI. The amended LOC
adds annual takes of non-ESA listed humpback whales, (Megaptera
novaeangliae, Hawaii Distinct Population Segment), during these
surveys. Additionally, the amendment adds in-water activities (pole-
mounted cameras and up to two swimmers) with humpback whales only in
order to identify the sex of humpback whales. The LOC expires June 1,
2018.
File No. 21134: Issued to John H. Schacke, Ph.D., George Dolphin
Ecology Program, 223 Trace Lane, Commerce, GA 30530 on May 11, 2017 to
conduct vessel surveys, photo-identification, and behavioral
observations of bottlenose dolphins (Central Georgia Estuarine System
stock) within coastal and estuarine waters of central Georgia. The
purpose of the research is to document the abundance, distribution,
movement, and frequency of bottlenose dolphins within Georgia and to
contribute to shared bottlenose dolphin catalogs within the southeast
Atlantic region. The LOC expires May 15, 2022.
File No. 18101-02: Issued to Pacific Whale Foundation [Principal
Investigator is Greg Kaufman], 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211, Wailuku, HI
96793 on March 27, 2017. The previous LOC (No. 18101-01; above)
authorized close approaches during vessel line-transect surveys for
photo-identification, behavioral observation, focal follows, and
underwater photography/videography of several non-listed odontocetes in
the waters offshore of Maui County, HI. The amended LOC adds
photogrammetry as a research procedure. The LOC expires June 1, 2018.
In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), a final determination has been made that the
activities are categorically excluded from the requirement to prepare
an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement.
Dated: December 14, 2017.
Julia Harrison,
Chief, Permits and Conservation Division, Office of Protected
Resources, National Marine Fisheries Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-27362 Filed 12-19-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-P
